Challenge yourself to better mental health with Mind HK’s ‘Move It’ campaign
- The Hong Kong organisation is urging people to take advantage of the city’s easy access to nature
- Psychological well-being is of particular concern during the Covid-19 pandemic
Get those steps in!Mental health organisation Mind Hong Kong launched its “Move It for Mental Health” campaign on Monday.
The campaign urges people to take advantage of the city’s hiking and biking trails to move 50km in nature this month.
Young Post spoke to Carol Liang, communications manager and campaign organiser about the goal of the challenge.
Take care of your mental health by spending time in nature
“We want to raise awareness of how physical activity and exercise impacts people’s mental health and well-being, rather than just physical health, as both are very much linked,” she says.
In previous years, the campaign was about creating community classes for people to attend for free. However this year, in order to comply with government regulations surrounding Covid-19, they looked to moving it outdoors.
But this year, Liang says, “We really want people get outside in nature and take advantage of the hikes and biking trails in Hong Kong.”
7 great bodyweight exercises you can do at home
According to a report published by hiking app Trailwatch, 80 per cent of Hongkongers do not achieve the recommended level of weekly exercise, which the World Health Organisation says is 150 minutes. And despite 40 per cent of Hong Kong being country parks, 11 per cent of the city’s residents have never stepped foot in one.
Being in nature is very good for your mental health, as it improves your mood, reduces feelings of negativity, and makes you feel positive towards exercise.
What’s more, taking a break from home and studies makes you more productive.
“I want people to realise that taking a break is not a waste of time, and you can get so much done afterwards,” Liang says.
Get out of the city and head to the Big Island for some quality hiking whatever your fitness level
Liang says some people might take the challenge head-on and complete the 50km in a single day by following the Hong Kong trail from Victoria Peak to Tai Long Wan. But it’s more likely entrants will break up the distance into sizable chunks over weekends, or do a little bit every day of the week. Whether you walk, hike, run or bike the 50km is up to you.
To help keep you motivated, MindHK will send updates and encouragement, and suggests sharing your progress on social media using the hashtags #MoveItHK and #50kmNatureChallenge.
You can track your progress by using apps like Trailwatch, Nike Run Club and Strava, or just use your personal fitness tracker. Log your 50km at the end of the month and those who complete the challenge are eligible for a prize.
Register at www.moveithk.com